In light of recent concerns regarding passport availability, the federal government has assured citizens that there is no cause for alarm, as it currently holds over 80,000 booklets in inventory.

Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, the Minister of Interior, addressed public worries related to passport renewals and new applications, stating that Nigerians living abroad will no longer need to travel between countries to secure their passports. He emphasized that the days of wasting time, resources, and risking safety on lengthy journeys are over.

During a media briefing in Abuja, the minister encouraged journalists to highlight the positive initiatives of the current administration instead of focusing on the challenges, noting that President Bola Tinubu has inherited many of the issues currently facing the nation.

Regarding the recent increase in passport fees, Tunji-Ojo clarified that the government is not exploiting citizens but rather adjusting prices to cover procurement costs. He explained, "If the government were to subsidize anything, I don't think it should be passports. The increase is merely from N35,000 to N50,000—approximately 45 percent. There has been no increase for Nigerians abroad."

He also outlined several reforms implemented during his tenure, including over 53,000 promotions within the year, a first in the agency's 38-year history, policies promoting inclusivity, a 35 percent recruitment quota for women across all services, and enhancements in welfare, such as securing group life insurance and pension benefits for officers.

Tunji-Ojo presented a detailed plan to revamp the passport issuance system, tackling ongoing challenges that have impacted millions of Nigerians. Notable accomplishments include the resolution of a backlog of 204,332 passport applications, which had left numerous citizens in limbo for long durations, the introduction of home delivery services for passports, and the installation of 41 e-gates at airports.

In addressing the issue of vandalism across the nation, the minister noted that over the past year, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has made considerable progress by apprehending 2,254 vandals and oil thieves, with 550 currently undergoing prosecution and 122 convictions achieved.

He remarked, "Moreover, the NSCDC has successfully disrupted organized crime syndicates by dismantling 150 illegal refineries and eliminating 64 unauthorized oil dumps." Tunji-Ojo expressed optimism that these initiatives have significantly diminished the threat of economic terrorism.

Additionally, he underscored the successful reform of the private security industry, highlighting that 115 licensed firms are now operating legally, with another 178 in the process of obtaining licenses. A total of 3,394 private security personnel have undergone comprehensive training, contributing to a remarkable revenue generation of ₦861,620,500.

In line with the goals of economic diversification, the minister announced the introduction of the Mine Marshal initiative, created in collaboration with the Ministry of Mines and Steel, aimed at tackling illegal mining activities and enhancing national revenue. He emphasized this initiative as part of their dedication to reducing dependence on the oil sector.

Furthermore, he mentioned that the ministry has prioritized the National Plan on Safe School initiative to ensure a secure educational environment for children.

In the Nigeria Correctional Service (NCoS), the minister highlighted significant projects completed at facilities in Kano, Niger, and Lagos.

Significant progress has been made within the Federal Fire Service, including the renovation and inauguration of the National Fire Academy in Sheda, Abuja. This facility will act as a central hub for training, research, and development, ensuring that fire personnel are adequately prepared to respond to emergencies. 

Additionally, efforts are underway to enact a new Fire Act to replace the outdated legislation from 1963, which will modernize fire safety protocols and provide the Federal Fire Service with a robust legal framework for effective operations in the current environment.

The minister further revealed that the ministry has finalized a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) to promote the comprehensive development of inmates in the country’s custodial facilities.

"We have established a partnership with the Nigeria Football Federation aimed at rehabilitating inmates in our Custodial Centers through football. This initiative is part of our broader strategy to leverage the transformative power of sports to instill discipline, encourage teamwork, and promote personal development among inmates," he remarked.